ICD-10 Code M00.039 – Staphylococcal arthritis, unspecified wrist (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M00.039 – Staphylococcal arthritis, unspecified wrist
What it is
This code identifies a staphylococcal infection causing arthritis in the wrist, with no side specified. It indicates an infectious joint process rather than degenerative or inflammatory arthritis.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include wrist pain, swelling, warmth, reduced range of motion, and tenderness. Fever may occur, but clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents staphylococcal septic arthritis involving the wrist and does not specify right or left. It also fits cases where the wrist joint infection is clearly attributed to Staphylococcus. Check documentation if the organism, joint, or laterality is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use it for noninfectious arthritis, cellulitis, osteomyelitis without joint involvement, or wrist pain without a documented staphylococcal joint infection. Check documentation when the diagnosis is uncertain.
Coding tip
Confirm both the organism and the joint site in the record before assigning M00.039.